Indians' Shapiro says Ramirez's return unlikely

CLEVELAND (AP) -- Indians president Mark Shapiro says now is the time to go for the AL Central title, and the front office is looking for ways to strengthen the first-place club.

Just don't expect to see Manny Ramirez back in Cleveland.

Speaking to fans from the Indians' social media program, Shapiro says general manager Chris Antonetti will be heavily involved in trade talks before the July 31 deadline. But he says a Ramirez return is unlikely.

Shapiro fielded questions Friday and outlined team priorities. Topping the list is winning a World Series, which hasn't happened in Cleveland in nearly 64 years.

Shapiro says Cleveland could return to the playoffs for the first time since 2007 with some help.

Ramirez, who hit 236 homers in eight seasons with the Tribe, was released by Oakland on June 15.